Eat right, get smart

Blueberries and strawberries are some of the healthiest foods you can eat. Studies have shown that these treats can reverse some of the effects of natural age-related brain decline. Blueberries and strawberries, if eaten on a regular basis, have been shown to help improve memory functions. Other research has shown that berries can help prevent various cancers and slow down vision loss. The reason? These fruits are high in polyphenols, powerful antioxidants that can help combat certain cardiovascular diseases.

Beans

Beans truly are a magical food. (And not just because of the old schoolyard song.) Black beans, split peas and soybeans contain high amounts of thiamine, a B vitamin credited with helping to build healthy brain cells. Research suggests these beans can also help boost your cognitive functions.

Fish

Fish are high in “good” fats. DHA, a fat found in fish, may lower your risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. Eating fish also helps keep the dopamine levels in your brain high, something that increases the growth of your front cortex. “That’s a very good thing if you want to stay smart,” said Dr. Judith Mabel, a registered dietician.

Nuts

Some people turn from nuts because they are often high in fat. But nuts are a good source of magnesium, which is needed to activate the enzyme that converts fatty acids into DHA. People with too low an amount of DHA are shown to have a number of neurological disorders, including attention deficits.

Spinach

We all know that spinach is rich in iron. It’s also rich in vitamin A. This vitamin is a powerful antioxidant and works to combat cancer and other diseases. You can find vitamin A in several other foods, most notably liver. But who’d rather eat liver than spinach?